Spending money while playing online is a common trend, with casino games usually requiring buy-in fees and fantasy titles having extra downloadable content. When spending online, we all must protect our finances, as cybercriminals lurk around many corners of the internet.
More than two-thirds of British gamers play online as of 2023, highlighting the number of people who could be targeted. Here are some ways to stay safe if you’re one of these players.
Image by Jan Vašek from Pixabay
- Use trusted payment methods
Credit cards, PayPal and pre-paid cards are usually more secure than bank transfers. They can provide consumer protection, which can help recover funds in case of fraud. For instance, some banks offer chargeback protection, meaning if a transaction turns out to be fraudulent, you can dispute it and potentially recover your money.
It’s advisable to avoid entering your card details directly on unfamiliar or unverified websites. Instead, opt for payment methods that don’t expose your account information.
- Enable two-factor authentication and strong passwords
Creating secure passwords for your accounts is a fundamental step in protecting your online presence. However, passwords alone may not be enough, with two-factor authentication (2FA) being great for adding an extra layer of security. 2FA requires a second verification form, such as a code sent to your mobile phone or authentication app. This makes it significantly harder for hackers to access your account, even if they have your password.
- Avoid public wi-fi for transactions
Public wi-fi networks pose significant risks, particularly when making online transactions. These networks are often unencrypted, making it easier for cybercriminals to intercept information.
Whether you’re purchasing new gear, game credits or playing mobile slots, you should ensure your transactions are conducted over personal wi-fi or mobile data only.
Alternatively, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your internet traffic, and make it much more difficult for criminals to snoop on your activities.
- Be cautious of phishing scams and fake websites
Phishing scams and fake websites are among the most common tactics for cybercriminals, with Google blocking around 100 million phishing emails daily. These scams often involve sending emails or messages that appear to be from legitimate companies but contain links to fraudulent sites designed to capture your login details or payment information.
To avoid falling for phishing attempts, always double-check the sender’s email address and never click on suspicious links. Additionally, use software that alerts you to potentially dangerous web pages and ensure that sites where you enter details use HTTPS.
Please note this is a contributed post.
